The National Lottery’s Big Night of Musicals by will be broadcast later this year
Two staff members from a Belfast-based theatre school have received recognition as local theatre heroes at The National Lottery’s Big Night of Musicals for their community contributions.
BBC Local Radio’s Make a Difference Show will broadcast a segment about the Local Theatre Heroes on Sunday, 22 March, showcasing how National Lottery funding has supported theatre initiatives across local communities.
Thanks to National Lottery players, more than 29,000 theatre-related projects have received support across the nation, with investment exceeding £1.4 billion dedicated to restoring venues, fostering creativity and maintaining theatre accessibility for everyone.
Kerry Rodgers, Creative Arts Manager, and Conor Anderson, Performing Arts Executive at Belfast’s Rainbow Factory Performing Arts School, were honoured as local theatre heroes at The National Lottery’s Big Night of Musicals, filmed in Manchester in January, acknowledging the school’s community work. They appeared on stage alongside six other local theatre heroes from around the country to rapturous applause from the 12,000-strong audience.
They spoke with BBC Local Radio’s Make a Difference Show presenter Gaby Roslin, joined by six other local theatre heroes from different regions. They have significantly influenced their communities, made possible through National Lottery funding.
Rainbow Factory, which forms part of YouthAction Northern Ireland – a regional youth organisation with over 80 years of operation – runs weekly dance and drama sessions for young people between 9-25 years old. The organisation utilises performing arts across all disciplines to transform young people’s lives and perspectives.
They strive to keep their services affordable or free wherever feasible, ensuring everyone feels welcome regardless of their background. The organisation has secured over £4M in National Lottery funding spanning 1998-2025.
Kerry Rodgers Creative Arts Manager, and Conor Anderson Performing Arts Executive, Rainbow Factory Performing Arts School said “We’re proud to have Rainbow Factory recognised as a Local Theatre Hero at The National Lottery’s Big Night of Musicals and to have been given the platform to share the transformative work that Rainbow Factory does for young people. All of this has been made possible because of you, The National Lottery players.”
The Local Theatre Heroes feature will air on BBC Local Radio’s Make a Difference Show on Sunday 22 March, whilst Big Night of Musicals by The National Lottery will broadcast on BBC One and BBC iPlayer during Spring 2026.
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